Progesterone is a medication used to induce menstruation in women who lack this hormone. It is also used to curb the growth of your endometrium (uterine lining) when you are receiving estrogen hormone replacement therapy, Drugs.com reports. Typically, you will take 200mg of progesterone daily for 12 days to treat endometrial hyperplasia (endometrial tissue overgrowth). To treat menstrual irregularities, you will take 400mg of progesterone daily at bedtime, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
In a placebo-controlled trial of 178 patients taking prescription progesterone, the National Library of Medicine says that 31 percent developed a headache, 27 percent developed breast tenderness, 20 percent experienced joint pain, 19 percent developed depression, 15 percent experienced dizziness and 12 percent developed abdominal bloating. Additionally, 11 percent developed hot flashes and urinary problems, 10 percent developed stomach pain and vaginal discharge while 8 percent developed nausea, vomiting and worry. Also, 7 percent developed chest pain and night sweats, 6 percent developed breast pain, vaginal dryness and swelling of the feet or hands while 3 percent developed constipation. Drugs.com indicates that progesterone can also cause acne, weight changes and hot flashes.
Serious Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine indicates that progesterone combined with estrogens can lead to a stroke and myocardial infarction (a heart attack). Symptoms of a stroke include a sudden headache, numbness or tingling on one side of your body and trouble sleeping. Symptoms of a myocardial infarction include chest pain that moves down your arm, sweating and nausea. Progesterone can also increase your risk for breast cancer. Breast cancer signs include a breast lump, nipple changes and nipple discharge. The National Institutes of Health indicates that progesterone can also cause shortness of breath, seizures and depression. Call your doctor if you develop any of these side effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid progesterone if you are allergic to it. A hypersensitivity reaction to progesterone includes hives, trouble breathing and swelling of your throat and face. Drugs.com indicates you should avoid progesterone if you have liver disease or a history of breast cancer, stroke, a heart attack or blood clot. Progesterone may worsen these conditions.
